So we are having a very small ceremony and dinner with just family, then a large party/reception at 8pm that evening. We are trying to keep it laid back, more of a party than a reception (we are keeping some reception like traditions/activities though.

I am worrying about how to start the party/reception. I thought about doing an entrance and then going right into the first dance but now I am thinking maybe, in the spirit of keeping things casual, we should just meet our guests at the door to welcome them personally. This way, we get to see everyone as they’re coming in. Then once the majority of our guests have arrived, we can do our first dance and make an thank you speech and get the party started.

I don’t think the receiving line would work in your situation since guests will most likely trickle in. Unlike when everyone is coming straight from the cermony to reception, not all of your guests will arrive around the same time.

@snd485: I know we probably wouldn’t get a chance to greet everyone. I was just thinking we could stand by the door to greet guests for the first 30 minutes to 45 minutes then get things started. I just feel like a grand entrance would be too formal for what we’re going for.

I would definitely do the grand entrance. I agree with the PP in that you will most likely be standing by the door waiting for everyone to come in, and then once everyone you have already greeted is in, they’ll be standing or sitting around waiting for the party to start, because you’ll still be by the door.

Personally, at weddings, I avoid receiving lines like the plague and prefer the bride, groom, and wedding party to come in all at once and be done with it.

@MrsMeowton: Yeah, I get that. The grand entrance seems quick and painless. We will have a slideshow playing as well while guests come in so I guess I figured we could greet them and they could go get a drink and view the slideshow while the other guests come in.